In an audacious political maneuver, Wisconsin Republicans are spearheading efforts to drastically curtail the extensive partial veto authority that state governors have wielded for the better part of a century. This initiative seeks to reshape the unique governance dynamics of Wisconsin, where the governor’s power to alter spending bills by modifying words, numbers, and punctuation stands unparalleled in the United States.
Unlike most states, where governors possess only the ability to eliminate or reduce spending figures, Wisconsin has enabled its leaders to enact sweeping changes to legislative bills—earning a reputation for having the most potent veto powers nationwide. However, political consensus across both major parties has gradually reduced this power over recent decades.
The bipartisan nature of this issue comes to the forefront as proposals arise from both Republicans and Democrats at different times, depending on who holds the governor's office. In a recent push, Republican lawmakers, led by Senators Julian Bradley and Cory Tomcyzk, along with Representative Scott Allen, have introduced a constitutional amendment aimed at constraining these powers further. The amendment would restrict the governor's veto abilities, permitting the rejection of only entire sections of spending bills rather than individual words or phrases.
For this proposal to enact change, it must clear two consecutive sessions of the Legislature and receive voter approval, setting the earliest potential timeline for effect in 2027. With the Legislature currently under Republican control, the upcoming 2026 elections will play a decisive role in determining the political landscape and the amendment’s future.
Significantly, the governor cannot veto the proposed amendment. Conversely, Democratic Governor Tony Evers, through his spokesperson Britt Cudaback, has urged lawmakers to support a different reform—enabling voters to initiate referendums, a move opposed by Republicans. As Cudaback articulated, Republicans’ message to the people of Wisconsin is clear: power for me but not for thee.
Amidst these political maneuvers, Republicans have turned to constitutional amendments as a strategic means to bypass Governor Evers, successfully placing multiple amendments on the ballot in recent years. These efforts include a measure set for voter decision on April 1, potentially enshrining the state's voter ID law within the constitution.
The dramatic and escalating debate surrounding partial veto powers also finds context in Wisconsin’s historical legislative evolution. Originally created through the 1930 constitutional amendment, the veto capacity has seen notable reductions through subsequent amendments in 1990 and 2008, which curtailed “Vanna White” and “Frankenstein” veto practices. These changes reflect a continuous trimming of gubernatorial authority in response to ongoing challenges.
A particularly contentious example under scrutiny involves Governor Evers' 2023 veto, which attempted to secure a 400-year extension for educational funding, highlighting the powerful use—and sometimes controversial application—of partial vetoes. This case is currently under review by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, set to determine the constitutionality of such veto actions, including the striking of digits and modification of legislative timelines.
As Wisconsin approaches a pivotal moment in governance, the outcome of these legislative and judicial processes will significantly shape the future trajectory of the state's political landscape, potentially ushering in a new era of gubernatorial limitations or affirming the strong hold of executive power.